Estonia, Republic. An Order of the Eagle Cross, II Class Commander, Civil Division

(Kotkaristi teenetemärk). Instituted in 1928. In silver and blue enamelled Estonian eagle insignia, illustrating the eagle clutching a sword in its right talon and a shield in its left talon, with the shield bearing three lions, mounted to a silver gilt and black enamelled Maltese cross base, the reverse centrepiece inscribed "24 II 1928" (February 24, 1928) with "PRO / PAT / RIA" (Pro Patria = For Fatherland) on the arms, measuring 54 mm (w) x 54.5 mm (h), ornate suspension loop, on its soiled original full-length neck ribbon, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Eagle Cross was instituted on February 24, 1928 by the Estonian Defence League, to commemorate the tenth anniversary of Estonian independence. It was awarded for services to state defence in five grades, in addition to three crosses.